Why can't we vote for US president by email or text?

In the aftermath of storm Sandy, New Jersey Governor Chris Christie has issued a directive allowing displaced residents to request and file a ballot electronically.

This option was already available to members of the US military and residents living overseas - but they must also file a paper ballot.

It has been extended to include the thousands of people living in communities where power has yet to be restored, where many question whether emergency polling stations will be able to cope with the numbers who want to vote.

But it is not only those in the storm's path of destruction who will face difficulties voting today. Millions will queue for hours for the opportunity to cast their vote.

The BBC's Matt Danzico investigates why, in a hi-tech age of convenience, we cannot use our smart phone to pick our politicians in the same way we choose celebrities on TV talent shows.